🌱 Freshman Year: Laying the Foundation for Your College Success

Freshman year is all about transition, exploration, and giving yourself grace as you adjust to a completely new world. Whether you’re living on campus, commuting, working part-time, or juggling family responsibilities, this year is your chance to build a strong foundation.

1. Learn How College Works

College doesn’t come with a manual, but understanding the basics early makes everything smoother. Get familiar with:
– Your syllabus (it's your contract for the class!)
– The add/drop period
– How to check your degree requirements
– Where to find advising, tutoring, and mental-health support

This is your time to ask questions. Asking early saves stress later.

2. Build Relationships With Professors

Introduce yourself. Show up to office hours. Ask for clarification when needed. These connections matter more than you realize — especially for letters of recommendation and academic support down the road.

3. Explore Your Interests

Join one club. Attend one event. Talk to someone new.
You don’t need to have everything figured out — freshman year is discovery, not perfection.

4. Create Healthy Routines

Sleep, study blocks, meals, and downtime matter. Small habits now prevent burnout later.

5. Use Campus Resources Early

Tutoring, advising, writing support, disability services — these are not signs of weakness. They’re signs of a student preparing for success.

Freshman year is about grounding yourself. Every small step you take now builds confidence for what’s ahead.